It looks like RCA will have the next HD-DVD player launch with its HDV5000 in May according to some sources. The launch of RCA, which is a Thomson brand, comes after Toshiba's HD-A1.

Wal-Mart states a tentative arrival date for the player of May 18, 2006 and will be ready to ship just as soon. The HDV5000 is backwards compatible with DVDs and CDs and will be able to up-convert DVD video to high-definition quality. The set up player will feature 5.1-channel audio output which is standard on most, if not all, DVD players nowadays and will also feature HDMI output for digital audio/video signals directly to HDTV sets. Another feature is a network connection which will allow the player to retrieve extra content.

There is no word yet on any other features of RCA's HD-DVD player but we're thinking the specifications probably won't exceed those of Toshiba's HD-A1 player. Pricing on the HDV5000 is set to about $500 at places like Wal-Mart, which already has the player on pre-order. At this price the HDV5000 directly compete's with Toshiba's HD-A1.

Content in the HD-DVD format has also been said to launch this week with titles popping up at retailers for around $29.99. Obviously, to reap the intended benefits of HD-DVD titles an HDTV is required with the proper connections.